Feb. 29, 2008

AMHERST, Mass. - Friday night was a historic night as UMass Chancellor Thomas W. Cole announced that lights will be installed at McGuirk Stadium for the 2008 football season at the team's annual banquet held at the Campus Center. Head coach Don Brown and his staff announced the team's award winners and national award winners. The players received their rings and watches to commemorate the 2007 season in which UMass captured the CAA Championship and reached the NCAA Quarterfinals.

Seniors Matt Lawrence and J.J. Moore shared the team's Outstanding Offensive Player Award. Seniors David Burris and Jason Hatchell were the team's Outstanding Defensive Award. The Outstanding Offensive Lineman Award went to seniors Matt Austin, Nick Diana and Chris Hopkins.

The Outstanding Special Teams Player Award went to senior kicker Chris Koepplin and senior linebacker/long snapper Cesar Rosario.

The Marcel Shipp Iron Minuteman Award was won by senior Matt Lawrence, sophomore Brandon Collier and junior Sean Smalls.

The Coaches' Award was claimed by seniors Michael Omar and Matt Lawrence along with junior Charles Walker.

Juniors Chris Cefalo and Jason Grochowalski were recipients of the Academic Achievement Award.

The Vic Fusia Most Improved Defensive Player Award went to sophomores Kyle C. Harrington and Michael Hanson. The Vic Fusia Most Improved Offensive Player Award went to senior Rasheed Rancher and sophomore Chris Zardas.

The Outstanding Offensive Scout Team Award was shared by true freshmen in tailback Emil Igwenagu and quarterback Octavious Hawkins. The Outstanding Defensive Scout Team Honor went to sophomore Anthony Monette and freshman James Carven.

Additionally, the All-CAA, All-New England and All-Americans awards were handed out. A highlight film produced by NFL Films and narrated by former All-Pro Sterling Sharpe.